Instagram tests chronological timeline: Yay or nay?

Instagram, the online photo and video sharing platform, is looking to switch back to the chronological timeline from algorithm-based

Representative image&nbsp | &nbspPhoto Credit:&nbspThinkstock

Instagram, the online photo and video sharing platform, is looking to switch back to the chronological timeline from algorithm-based, according to reports. Algorithm model refers to the order of photos and videos on an individuals' feed is based on the likelihood of them being interested in the content, relationship with the person posting and the timeliness of the post. The Facebook-owned platform had earlier posted that to improve user experience, 'feeds will soon be ordered to show the moments we believe you will care about the most.'

Instagram clarified that people missed out on an average of 70 percent of feeds in the chronological timeline and with the expanding community, they often didn't get to see the posts they cared about the most. However, over the past two years since the feature was implemented, several users have taken to social media to express their disagreement over the functionality. Considering that there is no option to switch between the chronological and algorithm-based timelines, users also complained about the lack of personal choice involved in viewing the kind of posts on their timeline.

To make matters worse, the company added 'Recommended posts' and 'Sponsored posts' to flood the timelines of its users. The business model of Instagram now closely resembles with that of Facebook ever since its acquisition by the social media giant. The chronological timeline was first spotted by Instagram user @jackharding when he posted an Instagram story that showed the old feature. The caption reads, "Instagram back to chronological order. I wonder if this is good or bad news.", according to resourcemagonline.

The Facebook-owned company's decision to implement algorithm-based timeline is more in-tune with serving the needs of brands and organisations to help them reach a wider audience. Instagram's move to test the old feature holds promise for its audience and we hope the company provides the option to switch between either of the timelines in future updates.

Instagram tests chronological timeline: Yay or nay?Description:Instagram, the online photo and video sharing platform, is looking to switch back to the chronological timeline from algorithm-basedTimes Now